4124 Satan, kingdom of

Satan is depicted as the prince of this world, having power over demons and over godless people. He is, however, subject to God’s sovereignty and therefore his power is limited and his rule temporary.

Satan’s power

He has power in the world 1Jn 5:19 See also Jn 7:7; Jn 8:44; Jn 14:17; Jn 15:18-19; Jn 16:20; Jn 17:14; Ac 26:18; 2Co 4:4; Eph 2:2; Col 1:13; 1Jn 2:15-16; 1Jn 4:4-5; Rev 13:12

He claims power over this world Mt 4:8-9 pp Lk 4:6

He is called the “prince” or the “god” of this world Jn 12:31 These titles indicate the temporary nature of Satan’s rule: Jn 14:30; Jn 16:11; 2Co 4:4

He is responsible for some illnesses Lk 13:16 See also Job 2:7; Ac 10:38; 2Co 12:7 Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” may or may not have been a physical illness.

He is responsible for death Heb 2:14

Satan’s kingdom

He has a kingdom Mt 12:26 pp Lk 11:18 Col 1:13 See also Ac 26:18; Eph 2:2

He has a throne Rev 2:13

He is the prince of demons Mt 9:34 The name Beelzebub is used elsewhere to name the prince of the demons. This name was used also to identify Satan. See also Mt 12:24 pp Mk 3:22 pp Lk 11:15

Satan’s authority is limited

He cannot do more than God allows Job 1:12 See also Job 2:6; 1Co 10:13; Rev 12:12; Rev 20:3

His rule is temporary Ro 16:20; Rev 20:10

See also